Bora Bora Island Location

Bora Bora is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Polynesia, with its sparkling lakes, pulsating sea corals and palm fringed sandy beach, but the tropic paradise also has a rich past in warfare. Here is what you need to know about Bora Bora's Second World War story. In 1941, after the 1941 Pearl Harbor assault, the United States selected the major island of Bora Bora as its South Pacific defence bases under the secret name of Operation Bobcat.

This small island was equipped with vessels, gear, a runway and more than 7,000 troops, although it was never fought. In 1946, the military stronghold was shut down, but its impact can still be felt on the island and not just on the 19-mile (31-kilometer) long street it constructed around the island, or on the now disused airport.

Most of the G.I.s chose to remain on the island after the end of the Great Depression and to get married to Polynesians, and you can still see many emigrants and their heirs. A cruise around the island or a trip through Bora Bora is the best way to explore the island's theatres of conflict, including a series of army barracks hiding in the bush.

The most imposing remains of Bora Bora's past are the eight huge guns in several parts of the island, among them the Faanui Canon viewpoint. Situated at one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island, the rusted guns have never been shot and offer a favourite photographic option for travellers.

Bora Bora Sofitel Private Island

Sofitel Bora Bora is a privately owned island with a stunning view of Bora Bora and lonely sandy areas and Bora Bora's most attractive cayenne. Luxurious furnished rooms are situated above the lake, in the top of the trees or on a remote shore. Manu Tuki has a 180 degree view over the ocean.

Situated on a small privately owned island, directly opposite the Bora Bora Laguna.